The picture from inside the production truck is kind of strange. All of the crew and onlookers for the September 12, 2009 game between USC and Ohio State are wearing strange glasses. If they had black suits onm they might be on the set of "Men in Black." But no, they have a far greater mission. They are producing a telecast of the game in 3D as a test for ESPN 3D.

Men in Black?: While they look like they are battling the rays of an intense sun or

auditioning for roles in a "Men in Black" remake, this ESPN crew is producing the

September 12, 2009 game between USC and Ohio State in 3D. Jeff Mills/2009

The successful test was part of a run-up to today's announcement that ESPN will launch ESPN 3D, the industry’s first 3D television network, on June 11, 2010 for the first 2010 FIFA World Cup match featuring South Africa vs. Mexico.

Are We in Sync Yet?: 3D Productions require that 2 lenses be calibrated. Jeff Mills/2009

"ESPN’s commitment to 3D is a win for fans and our business partners,” said George Bodenheimer, Co-chairman, Disney Media Networks, and President, ESPN and ABC Sports. “ESPN 3D marries great content with new technology to enhance the fan’s viewing experience and puts ESPN at the forefront of the next big advance for TV viewing.”

3 Lenses, Two Pictures: This 3D camera, positioned alongside a traditionalcamera, uses two lenses to capture the image for processing. Scott Clarke/2009

“This will be a meaningful step to drive adoption of 3D television sets and afford opportunities for our affiliates to create value through new product offerings, and our advertisers, who want fresh sponsorship opportunities,” said Sean Bratches, executive vice president, sales and marketing.

Queue the Tape: ESPN 3D Tape Operators working the machines during the
September 12, 2009 production of the USC - Ohio State football game. Scott Clarke/2009

ESPN 3D will showcase a minimum of 85 live sporting events during its first year, beginning with the first 2010 FIFA World Cup match on June 11 featuring South Africa vs. Mexico. Other events to be produced in 3D include up to 25 2010 FIFA World Cup matches, Summer X Games, college basketball, and college football, which will include the BCS National Championship game in Glendale, Ariz., January 10, 2011.